Date Night
J ulian and I strolled hand in hand along Fifth Avenue. Thrilled that he was in the mood for an evening walk, I nestled up beside him in a half-embrace.
“Friday feels good,” I remarked while looking forward to our elegant dinner. It was our last weekend before his trip to Dubai, so I intended to savor every moment of looking at Julian’s stunning face from every angle. I still couldn’t believe he was mine, and I doubted that sentiment would ever change. Yet, in some inexplicable way, it also felt completely natural, like I’d always belonged next to him. On one side, he was the unattainable billionaire on the covers of magazines, on the other side he was my best friend, seeking a sense of normalcy like everyone else.
“Have you thought about taking a couple of days off? Maybe we could go on a trip when I get back, Lucie.” He teased me with the idea of a vacation. “You mentioned you’d want to visit Tahiti.” He looked particularly suave today in his designer Versace coat, expertly tailored to his frame, complete with matching gloves.
I sighed. “I don’t think I can justify the time off, Julian. Amanda just threw a new request my way—she wants me to complete an MBA on top of everything. In a year.” I exhaled sharply.
It felt odd to mention this to him, especially since he had never even finished college. Everything he’d achieved in real estate was entirely self-taught. Yet here he was, one of the wealthiest people in California and the CEO of multiple companies. Most people with prestigious degrees couldn’t match his business acumen or compete with his understanding of transactions. Julian probably hired people with MBAs to do work for him, the work he didn’t want to do himself. He didn’t necessarily have a disdain for degrees; he just didn’t care to get them.
“Amanda’s very good at keeping you away from me,” he smirked. “But Lucie, if it’s what you want to do… What school have you decided on?”
“I’ve been going through the brochures Amanda gave me. I think I’ve settled on LSU, Louisiana State University. They are accredited with the certification that Amanda wants, yet they have flexibility. Classes start in two weeks if I get accepted. All online, of course. They don’t require the GMAT, which will save me some time too.”
“Anything I can do to support you?” He squeezed my hand. We exchanged glances and I suddenly began to feel guilty for not volunteering the second part of my conversation with Amanda. “There’s something else,” I croaked. “But you have to promise me you won’t try to solve it for me.” I paused in my tracks and gazed into his sincere eyes.
The lights of the city twinkled around us and it was a comfortable evening for our stroll. Downtown, even the area of Bankers Hill, those have been streets that felt like home now. I used to wander them alone, perhaps on my bicycle, now I walked them hand in hand with the love of my life. At least I presumed he was. So, I decided that I should tell him what was bothering me, not to feel so alone with it. Julian deserved to be in the know too.
“Amanda is selling Apogee . She’s offered me to buy in. To become a partner.”
I expected him to immediately try to put a bandage over my bleeding wound.
“And you want to get there on your own.” He finished my train of thought. “Why you were hesitant to tell me first place.” He analyzed correctly.
“It just wouldn’t feel right, Julian, to borrow money from you. I am sorry, I hope you understand that I couldn’t accept it.”
“How much?” He gave me an inquisitive glance.
“Around $13 million. It’s twenty percent of A shares, the minimum requirement for Apogee’s future business executives.” I sighed. “Basically, way more than I have in my bank account.” I tried not to sound depressed. “Way more that’s realistic for me to earn in a year when I need it.”
He offered a slight smile at my desperate joke. “I’m glad you told me, Lucie.”
“You know better than anyone what it feels like to be self-made. To get there on your own.”
He nodded in understanding. “You don’t want to mix work and pleasure, but you’re willing to embrace all the challenges that come with being with me. If I can help make a dream come true for you, it’s the least I can do. But I am not going to press.”
“I believe I’ll find a way to whatever is meant for me.” It was important for me to maintain a sense of independence. “Not to lose my life’s purpose.”
“That’s why I love you, Lucie. You’re innocent.” He held the door open for me as we approached the restaurant’s elevator.
“And hungry,” I murmured, as I glued my eyes on the menu displayed in a standing frame nearby.
“Just don’t tell Rose that Mister’s Mac and Cheese beats hers,” Julian quickly changed subjects. “I’ve been looking forward to ordering it all day.” Despite everything I’d dropped on him earlier, he seemed to be in a cheerful mood.
I chuckled. “I disagree. Nothing’s better than Rose’s cooking.” It was refreshing to have opposing opinions on something.
The elevator door slid shut with a soft whirr , and he pivoted to face me. “It turns me on when we argue anyway.” My back pressed against the wall as he pulled me into an intense, unexpected kiss. I couldn’t focus on anything but the sudden rush, his hands climbing up my thighs, hiking up my skirt. I ran my fingers through his hair while he grabbed my ass and propped me against the railing. “Fuck, this feels good,” he groaned. His scent delivered a slice of heaven to my nostrils.
The mutual understanding between us that this would be over before it started made the entire experience even more fun. How quickly could we look put together again? I slid down the railing and adjusted my skirt right before the elevator door opened with a ring.
While wiping his lips, he grabbed my hand once again, and then headed toward the receptionist.
I was fairly certain the staff had picked up on the telltale signs of a couple who’d just shared a brief make-out session. Usually, though, Oliver, Julian’s head of security, made sure all the necessary documents were signed to keep anyone from as much as peeping about what they’d witnessed. A fact that would indisputably work in our favor.
Our waitress hurried over, flashing us a welcoming smile and inviting us to follow her next.
“Truffle fries, we have to get those,” Julian exclaimed as she ushered us to our table on the outside deck. The view of San Diego from the 12 th floor was breathtaking, enough to make us feel like we were literally on top of the world. We could see the entire downtown and Little Italy, along with the harbor. And as expected, there were no other people there. The entire place was ours for the night.
To my surprise, he had adorned the entire deck with an array of crimson roses, their vibrant colors creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the city. Each bouquet was carefully arranged, filling the air with a sweet fragrance that mingled with the breeze.
“So gorgeous,” I took in the decorations in awe. “All for just a date?” He’d really taken this seriously.
“Would you like a drink?” an older waiter, dressed in a stylish French waitstaff uniform interrupted us, drawing my attention away from the beautiful surprise. He had a distinguished air about him, with silvering hair neatly combed back and a neatly trimmed mustache that added to his refined appearance. His calm, steady movements reflected years of experience, and the warmth in his eyes suggested a genuine desire to make his guests feel welcome.
“Please, a glass of Malbec,” I quickly decided. Julian followed suit by choosing another red wine from the list. I couldn’t help but feel like he was trying hard for everything to be perfect. We shared perfectionistic tendencies, except I’d lately been embracing more of authenticity. They weren’t necessarily mutually exclusive, though. Perfect authenticity turned easily into art, as my mom used to say.
The waiter jotted down a few notes and then vanished into the back. The candle on the table flickered gently in the cool air.
“Thank you,” I looked at Julian, while he helped me in my seat. “The setting is absolutely gorgeous,” I remarked, taking in the elegance of the surroundings.
“It’s nothing, Lucie.” His eyes shone like molten silver, but there was something different about them today—an unusual confidence. I liked it, and attributed it to his recent new Lamborghini purchase. The custom white Aventador had been his childhood dream, a seemingly impossible wish for a little boy growing up in scarcity and abuse, turning into reality. He had to turn into a billionaire to finally justify such an expense without guilt. It was a milestone, and I felt honored to be part of it.
“It’s more than just a car. It’s part of my story.” He’d said to me earlier.
I knew the tales behind his scars. Yeah, it was most definitely the new car, I thought.
“Are you excited for Dubai?” I asked, eager to fuel the flame of his success. The resort was about to become a monumental return on his investment.
“Not as excited as I should be because you’re not coming.” He flashed me a brilliant smile. It would always be my favorite feature of his. It reached his eyes, which sparkled with genuine warmth. Aside from his communication skills, I’d identified it as the one reason why he’d gotten so ahead in life.
But he didn’t need to remind me. Days apart could feel like weeks apart at a time.
“You know what they say. Absence makes the heart grow fonder…” I reminded him of this well-worn cliché.
“My heart grows fonder when you’re in my bed,” he objected.
I narrowed my gaze. “How about we make up for it all tonight?” I suggested playfully.
“Let’s not sleep then,” he sent me a mischievous grin.
A blush crept up my cheeks. Could our passionate relationship be any better? No, it couldn’t. It transcended anything I’d ever felt or experienced with anyone. He leaned in closer, his lips just inches from mine, making my breath catch. But then, as if caught by some sudden thought, he straightened and gave me a knowing look. “Will you excuse me?” Julian suddenly stood up.
“Go ahead,” I nodded, figuring he probably needed to use the bathroom after our long walk. He gave me a lingering smile before heading off, his departure leaving a quiet space between us. I let my thoughts wander before the waitress showed up with our two glasses of wine. I didn’t wait for Julian to return before taking a sip. A warm glow spread through me, much like a wave of relief. Everything seemed less of a problem on the 12 th floor of Mister A’s, while I was on a fabulous date with the best-looking man alive, it wasn’t just my tipsy opinion either. Sober Esquire had backed me up on this one, declaring him a heartthrob in one of their polls. It was the one time I actually agreed with a superficial survey like that.
I took my phone out to snap a photo of the stunning view, then noticed I’d received a new message.
What did James say? It was Val. She typically didn’t care much about this kind of stuff, so it surprised me that she was so invested. My phone dinged as she sent a link. James Stone Hints at Mystery Ex-Girlfriend Behind His Latest Music, the headline read.
Not yet, work was cray today. I typed. I found out Amanda is selling her company.
You better act fast baby girl, before this gets out of control. She seemed so focused on James that she didn’t even comment on the fact I was about to potentially lose my job.
Okay, maybe the 12th floor couldn’t save me from everything. Unless I planned to toss my phone over the edge. I might have considered it, but then I remembered how it also fed my dopamine addiction. Like everyone else my age, I couldn’t stay away from my phone for too long.
“Everything okay?” Julian reappeared, seemingly noticing my sudden frustration.
“Yeah, everything’s perfect,” I convinced us both, determined not to let the memory of an ex ruin our special day. “I’m just trying to decide on something from the menu.” I pulled the booklet closer. “I’m tempted to order a steak with you,” knowing full well what he’d choose. However, among my New Year’s resolutions, still lingering in the back of my mind, was to eat less red meat. I felt guilty for the animals and the planet, so I decided I’d exercise some restraint this time.
I quickly scanned the menu for fish options, but most were cooked, except for an appetizer called Bluefin Tuna Tiradito. It was an easy first choice; I always gravitated toward raw fish when I had the chance. “You know I’ll have the Tuna appetizer as the main,” I concluded the decision-making process. “And yes, let’s do a side of truffle fries.”
The waiter returned just in time to overhear our conversation and take our order.
What a contrast to my diet a year ago, when I was on a tight budget and could barely afford anything beyond simple meals from Grocery Outlet. I’d never stop being grateful for my change of luck. I’d made some bold decisions to get to where I was now, but still, I couldn’t take any of it for granted.
“I’ll go with the ribeye,” Julian thanked the waitress while she grabbed both of our menus. “Medium done, please.”
It was a balmy night, so we didn’t even need the heat lamps around us. Still, they brought a pleasant warmth to the experience.
“Maybe instead of going to Tahiti, Lucie, we could take a weekend trip to visit your Gram.” He proposed. “I’d love to see more of your home again.”
I grinned. “You know you can always convince me to join you on a trip like that.”
“Great, I’ll tell Oliver to schedule it.” He proceeded to send the message right away.
I finally decided to snap the picture I’d been meaning to take. The skyline at this time of day was stunning, with the city shimmering in the distance. Julian had truly crafted an extraordinary life for us in every way. We’d made countless memories together, from our first date nights in the hidden bars of the Gaslamp District to the moment he bought me the rose he transformed into a glazed forever rose. Then there were the times spent on the water aboard his yacht, Trading Yesterday . It was still possible to see the yacht all the way from Mister A’s.
Suddenly, a wave of melancholy washed over me. I was his girl now, and I had everything. But if he ever decided I wasn’t the one, would I ever be able to find myself again? This thought crept in perhaps too often. Deep down, I feared loss and loneliness—after losing my mom unexpectedly and then also finding out about James and Andrea— I still struggled to believe in happy endings. Without him noticing, I studied Julian’s features. He could easily have been an actor if he weren’t so analytical; for this reason, business suited him perfectly. He could be cold and emotionless when he needed to be, but this didn’t mean that privately, he often didn’t fall apart—sometimes in my arms too. I loved that we were so vulnerable with each other. With how much our past hurt us, and with how it turned us into the independent people we’d become.
He tugged at my protective instincts. He’d never had the things in life that most people took for granted—a mom and dad, for starters. I felt an urge to fill that void, no matter how impossible of a task it was. He’d filled that void for me to some extent. I wasn’t looking into the past as much.
He raised his eyes from his phone. As if he knew I was overthinking again.
“Done deal. Oliver said we leave in two weeks. I’m going to miss you in the meantime. You know what would make me feel better?”
“I have a pretty good idea what it may be,” I was certain it involved our mind-blowing sex, perhaps my lips wrapped around… I hid myself behind the dessert menu, trying to contain the heat rising in my cheeks. Could we just for once not talk about making out?
“Marry me.”
I flinched so fast that the menu slipped from my hands and fell onto the table with a soft thud. Julian was now, visibly on his knees, looking up at me with a mix of mischief and sincerity. The bustling restaurant faded into a blur as I focused solely on him, his hopeful gaze locked onto mine.
I hadn’t realized that this entire evening had been an elaborate plan to propose. The choice of venue was so like Julian—to combine everything we adored. Nothing overboard, nothing foreign. Just us, wrapped in the familiarity of our favorite restaurant, overlooking the city views that we cherished, and utter privacy for me to decide on a response, without the pressure of an outside audience.
My heart pounded in my chest when I noticed he naturally had a box. He opened the box, revealing the ring inside. It was beyond stunning, catching the soft light of the restaurant and sparkling with a brilliance that spoke volumes about the seriousness of his question.
But I was too lost in the thought of what this offer represented —commitment, adventure, and a future intertwined. Kids, would we have kids? I was 25, perhaps it wasn’t something he’d want in the near future, I hoped. Not that I didn’t want to become the mother of his children someday.
“There will never be anyone else but you. Will you marry me, Lucie?” His voice wavered with a hint of nervous vulnerability. My wide eyes probably made him doubt my response, but honestly, I was just trying to slow everything down.
I’d seen it coming, just not in this moment. He’d done his research, had carefully mapped out our dreams for the future to make sure they aligned. Not unexpectedly, happy tears clung to my lashes, blurring the edges of the world around us. “Absolutely yes,” I exclaimed, kneeling next to him, holding his hands around the ring box. Before I could fully process it, his lips crashed into mine, soft and urgent. “I love you,” he whispered against my mouth.
Husband and wife. We’d become family to each other, forging a bond that was stronger than the curses our families had faced. We melted into an embrace, without anyone walking in on us, the staff well aware that he’d want it that way.